Superficiality is beginning to disappear in certain circles, but that doesn’t mean that beauty should cease to be recognized, and Sara explains how everybody can do it
I recently attended the annual Global Wellness Summit, a conference held in a different country each year. This year it took place in Kitzbuhel, in the Austrian Alps – quite a change of climate from Playa!
One of the predominant themes this year was beauty. In the Spa and Wellness field, beauty has become somewhat of a taboo word, with connotations of superficiality and even narcissism. However, our brains are hardwired to detect and appreciate beauty, and even to protect it. Whether we find beauty in nature, in sound, in others around us or, dare I say it, in ourselves, it should be something that we accept, appreciate and celebrate. After all, who doesn’t want to look in the mirror and feel beautiful?
Here are some ways to feel beautiful:
- Smile. Said to be the cheapest ‘beauty procedure’ ever. A smile brightens everyone’s face, without fail. It also triggers happiness in yourself and others!
- Be in awe of your body. Whatever your size or shape, whatever your body ‘can’t’ do, be in awe of the amazing things it can and does do every single day. Love it and look after it, you’ve only get one!
- Stand tall. Stand up straight, pull your shoulders back and down and embrace confidence and beauty.
- See yourself as others do. It is usually true that we are often our own worst critics. We speak far more harshly to ourselves than we ever would to a friend. Encourage and appreciate yourself as you would with someone you love.
- Hug. Hugging releases oxytocin in the brain, the chemical responsible for feelings of connection, intimacy and love. Hold the hug for an extended period of time to get the benefits. My close friends always know they need to hug me for at least 7 seconds, and they all know why!
- Create Beauty Around You. Be creative with the space you live in, work in and sleep in. Surround yourself with beautiful colors, décor, furniture, light and nature.
Sara Jones
Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness Mexico magazine
